Welcoming Difficult People into your Life

You probably have met some difficult people. Whenever you meet them, you can literally sense their unease and pain. And unless you put up some defense shield, at least initially, it is easy to get sucked in by their negative energy. 

Everyone who comes our way is meaningful, so please don't block people out just because dealing with them is difficult. What message do you think the trouble maker has for you? Are there perhaps some unhealed wounds inside of you that get triggered by that person? Could it be that there is still some poison that floats deep inside of you, ready to come to the surface at the unpleasant encounter?

Tao travelers are not any different than all the other folks. We also have to cope with stuff and people we rather would do without. However, where we differ perhaps is our intent to do something with every situation. Over and over the Tao has taught us that everything and everyone is yet another healing opportunity. Never mind the person who may have triggered the pain inside, we can heal and we can transcend here and now. Perhaps we are unwilling to acknowledge some unpleasant characteristics in ourselves and our friend is here to remind us what work still lies ahead. Chances are, when we are ready to make a change, the difficult person will also change with us.

A Tao traveler can heal situations with her very presence. De-stress your friend with your smiles and your relaxed attitude. But don't just pretend to be at ease, otherwise you will be in for a trick rather than treat. Even when you feel miserable, look for the present your friend has in hand for you. Your love and compassion will melt the pain for all parties involved. Along the Tao nothing is difficult. Just show up, She does everything else.

By Christian and Su Zhen